Rough Boy

ZZ Top

About Rough Boy

"Rough Boy" was the third single by American rock band ZZ Top from their 1985 album Afterburner. The song reached No. 5 on the Album Rock Tracks chart and No. 22 on the Billboard Hot 100, as well as No. 23 in the UK Top 40. Unlike the other songs on the album, this song has a much slower tempo and is more of a power ballad. It also shares a similar, though much slower, tune to their song "Leila" from their album El Loco.


Year:
2004
4:51
95 
#1

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What in the world's come all over me?
I ain't got a chance of one in three
Ain't got no rap, ain't got no line
But if you'll give me just a minute I'll be feelin' fine

I am the one who can fade the heat
The one they all say just can't be beat
I'll shoot it to you straight and look you in the eye
So gimme just a minute and I'll tell you why
I'm a rough boy, I'm a rough boy

I don't care how you look at me
Because I'm the one and you will see
We can make it work, we can make it by
So give me one more minute and I'll tell you why
I'm a rough boy, I'm a rough boy

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ZZ Top

ZZ Top is an American rock band from Houston, Texas. Formed in 1969, the group consists of Billy Gibbons (guitar and vocals), Dusty Hill (bass and vocals), and Frank Beard (percussion). ZZ Top's early sound was rooted in blues but eventually grew to exhibit contemporary influences. Throughout their career they have maintained a sound based on Hill's and Beard's rhythm section support, accentuated by Gibbons' guitar and vocal style. Their lyrics often gave evidence of band's humor and thematically focus on personal experiences and sexual innuendos. more »

7 fans

Written by: Billy Gibbons, Dusty Hill, Frank Beard

Lyrics © BMG Rights Management

Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind


11 facts about this song

Band Origins
ZZ Top, the band behind "Rough Boy," is a classic rock group from Texas. The band was established in 1969 and consists of members Billy Gibbons, Dusty Hill, and Frank Beard.
Album Information
"Rough Boy" is taken from the band's ninth studio album, "Afterburner," which was released in 1985.
Chart Performance
The track was ZZ Top's second major hit on the Billboard Hot 100 chart, where it climbed all the way to number 22.
Music Video Recognition
The music video for "Rough Boy" won the 1986 MTV Video Music Award for Best Group Video, displaying a futuristic car-themed concept.
Different Style
Unlike many other ZZ Top songs, which are hard-edged Texas blues-rock, "Rough Boy" is a power ballad and presents a mellower, more polished sound. This was a significant move illustrating their versatility.
Compositional Credits
All three band members – Gibbons, Hill, and Beard – share the compositional credits for "Rough Boy."
Memorable Lyrics
The song is often remembered for its lyrics, especially its chorus: "Cause I'm a rough boy, I'm a rough boy."
Song Interpretations
The meaning of "Rough Boy" has been the subject of debate; some believe it describes a tough man longing for softness and love, while others interpret it as a subtle comment on masculinity.
Connection to Car Culture
As with several other ZZ Top songs and videos, "Rough Boy" makes references to the band's interest in cars. This connection is particularly obvious in the music video, where a space shuttle merges with a classic automobile.
Live Performances
"Rough Boy" is a staple in ZZ Top's live performances, often showcasing Gibbons' impressive guitar work. Despite its stylistic divergence from most of their reportoire, it has remained a fan favorite.
Album Success
The album "Afterburner" where "Rough Boy" taken from, was a commercial success, gaining multi-platinum status and is ZZ Top's highest-selling album with over 5 million copies sold in the US alone.

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    Rough Boy

    11.3M
    62,909     2,344

    Top Hot 100 Songs 1986

    Billboard #22


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